Do you fall asleep while watching television? Have you ever nodded off during meetings or in mid conversation? Do you battle fatigue while driving your car? Do you always feel as if you need a good night of sleep? Does your spouse complain that you snore all night? Answering “yes” to any of these questions could indicate that you have a problem with Sleep Apnea.

Because a person with sleep apnea may not recall waking during the night to breathe, they may be unaware that they have Sleep Apnea. “I don’t recall ever waking up to breathe,” is a common response.

Some of the Symptoms that may indicate Sleep Apnea are:

• Snoring
• Daytime sleepiness and fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Poor memory
• Personality changes
• Depression
• Morning headaches
• Dry mouth when you wake up
• Sore or dry throat
• Frequent nighttime urination
• Waking several times during the night
• Unexplained heart or respiratory failure
• Chest retraction (sunken chest) – seen in children suffering from sleep apnea
• Irritability
• Excessive perspiring during sleep
• Reduced libido
• Rapid weight gain

People suffering from sleep apnea usually find ways to compensate for their fatigue and may not realize how tired they actually are. To compensate a person may use caffeine or another stimulant, take frequent short walks or use other activities to stay awake.

Sleep apnea may be life-threatening if left untreated. You should see your doctor immediately if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms. Sleep Apnea is most common in men, overweight individuals and snorers. Age increases ones chance of developing Sleep Apnea. The older you are the greater your chances of developing Sleep Apnea.